Hi, I have a 1954 Triumph T110. I'm lost as to what oil I should use for: Engine Oil Primary Drive Oil Gearbox Oil The bike was restored and only used for shows. Last summer I did a few ride outs. Just started it up for the Summer, all good but I want to get her fit for the summer - hence only summer rides. Thank you in advance.
1. Mineral oil 20w50 unless you can get a straight 40w 2. SAE 30 3. SAE 40 or 50 EP (I think) https://www.smithandallan.com/products/transport-classic-and-vintage/ https://www.opieoils.co.uk/c-1489-classic-motorbike-engine-oils.aspx Smith and Allan are, in my experience, very helpful and knowledgeable and bulk supply prices are extremely good. Worth a call. p.s. '54 T110? no pics. no proof!
Not sure on the model but i use Hypoid 80/90 in my T140. Yes do hit the upload a file button bottom right corner and let us all see such a historic machine. Joe.
The 'right' engine oil is definitely worth looking into. Don't just go for any mineral oil. Some will have too high detergent level which is fine for modern engines but not for old ones. If the crankshaft sludge trap hasn't been cleaned out for many years, the high detergent oil could flush some of that sludge into your engine internals. Your engine probably won't have a modern cartridge filter unless one has been retro-fitted, just a gauze strainer in the oil tank and sump, so you want an oil that is designed for those conditions. Also, a modern oil won't 'stick' to engine internals and valve gear unlike the old style mineral oils. If you don't know if your engine has been rebuilt fully, it's probably safer to go with a 'straight' monograde oil (ie: without detergent and some other additives), something like Millers Vintage Millerol 40 grade. If the engine has been rebuilt and the sludge trap cleaned out you would be fine using a low or mid detergent mineral 20-50 multigrade with a high zinc content. I use Motul 'After 1950' 20-50 Classic Mineral Oil for my 1951 Tiger 100 abd '78 BMW. The high zinc content helps protect old style flat tappets and cams. Many types of modern mineral oil won't have the necessary additives needed for the protection of old engines so only go for an oil intended for classic engines.
